Medlar
Mespilus germanica
Botanical family: Rosaceae
Mespilus germanica, the true medlar (not to be confused with the Japanese medlar, Eriobotrya japonica, the loquat, of an entirely different genus). A Rosaceae native to south-eastern Europe and western Asia, naturalised here and there in France, whose fruits are eaten bletted. Sources: Tela Botanica, “Mespilus germanica L.” (Coste's flora); Plants For A Future, “Mespilus germanica”.
Sun to partial shade
Ordinary, cool, well-drained
Moderate
Very hardy (~-25 °C)
Overwinters in your zone
Self-fertile
One plant is enough for a crop
Role in permaculture
A small, twisted, ornamental tree, very hardy and self-fertile, with a large solitary white flower (nectar-bearing) and foliage with lovely autumn tints. Frugal and treatment-free, a heritage fruit tree for small gardens.
Good companions
Known pests & diseases
Pests and diseases that commonly affect this plant, tap to learn how to recognise and manage them.
Seasons & availability
Medlars picked in October and November while still hard, then left to blet for several weeks before being eaten.
Available: October, November, December.
Guidance for the oceanic / temperate climate; it may vary with your region, altitude, exposure and growing method.
Sources
- RHS, « How to Grow Medlars » (rhs.org.uk/fruit/medlars/grow-your-own)
- Plants For A Future, « Mespilus germanica » (pfaf.org/user/Plant.aspx?LatinName=Mespilus+germanica)
Nutritional & medicinal properties
For educational purposes. Not a substitute for medical advice. Effects depend on the form, the dose and personal context.
Precautions & contraindications
Do not eat the large pips.
Family behaviour: Rosaceae
In general, Rosaceae are traditionally paired with garlic (reputed antifungal, an in-vitro effect against Venturia inaequalis but little demonstrated in the field), tansy and comfrey. This is the fruit family (strawberry, raspberry, apple, pear, cherry, plum, peach). Tansy is the emblematic companion of the apple tree guild.
Understanding families means learning one rule per family rather than every pairing one by one. Learn more →
Species & varieties
The best-known species and varieties in France.
Species
Common varieties
Key takeaways
- • Prefers sun to partial shade exposure.
- • Ideal soil: ordinary, cool, well-drained.
- • Classic companion: Comfrey.